American Pharoah has made world racing history with his recent win in the Belmont Stakes, run over 2,25km, to claim the desired Triple Crown title. Before the Triple Crown, American Pharoah was already collecting wins in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. The big-striding Thoroughbred is owned by Ahmed Zayat and trained by Bob Baffert.
The run started out relatively flat-footed but jockey, Victor Espinoza guided American Pharoah to the front. He was leading by two lengths in the home stretch. As he crosses the finish line, American Pharoah had extended his lead to five and a half lengths, which pleased a very excited crowd. American Pharoah became the 12th Triple Crown winner. In the past, other horses have managed to win the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes but somehow always fall short in the final leg.
“It is just unbelievable how things worked out,” said a very thrilled Espinoza after the race. Trainer, Baffert was also very emotional about the win and said, “I am thinking about my parents. I am wishing they were alive to see this.” Baffert was enthusiastic about the race and said that he knew the horse was going to make the win. He had been training well before the race so it was no surprise that he took home a victorious win.
As for the other racers, Frosted placed second, Keen Ice placed third, and Mubtaahij placed fourth.
Text: Charlotte Bastiaanse
Source: Horsetalk